No. I tell you, it is Holy Church which instructs…
““No. I tell you, it is Holy Church which instructs Christians how to live, not the Bible. Christians could be pure in their faith even if the Bible had never been written. Doctrine has passed orally from one generation to the next, through Holy Mother Church, God’s instrument on earth. ‘Quod semper, quod ubique, quod omnibus.’ ‘What has been believed always, everywhere, and by all.’ Tradition. Founded by the Apostles and continuing, unbroken, to the present day. Christ founded a church. He did not write a book!””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The quote argues that Church tradition, not the Bible, guides Christian living, emphasizing oral transmission and continuity from the Apostles.
In simple terms: Church tradition is seen as the primary guide for Christians, not the Bible.
Key Takeaway
Consider the role of tradition versus scripture.
Themes
faith
tradition
authority
church
scripture
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
theological
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal devotion
- theological study
- church teaching
- interfaith dialogue
Key Concepts
Ecclesiology
oral transmission
apostolic succession
Questions to Reflect On
- How does tradition influence your personal beliefs?
- Can doctrine and scripture coexist?
A Different Perspective
The Bible also shapes doctrine and personal faith for many.